The Minority has accused the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government of hypocrisy and failure in tackling the growing illegal mining crisis, known as ‘galamsey’. Describing the situation as a “full-blown national emergency”, the Minority called for an end to “fancy stunts” and demanded concrete action to save Ghana’s environment.
In a press release, the Minority accused the NDC of betraying its promises and presiding over an even worse galamsey epidemic just six months into office. “The government was handed GHC 50 million in the 2025 budget to combat illegal mining – five times what was allocated under the NPP in 2024 – yet the public sees only token gestures with no real action,” the statement read.
The Minority further alleged that illegal mining is thriving in President John Dramani Mahama’s own hometown of Bole Bamboi, specifically in Tumtumba, where the Yonkamba stream, a vital tributary of the Black Volta, has been destroyed. “If the President cannot safeguard the natural resources of his own backyard, what hope is there for the rest of the country?” the statement questioned.
The release also cited growing public discontent and referenced strong criticisms from key institutions, including the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG). Both groups have condemned the government’s response as weak and complicit.
The Minority warned that journalists exposing illegal mining activities are being ignored despite credible evidence of environmental degradation and political interference in enforcement. The statement highlighted the alarming rise in public health issues in galamsey-affected areas, adding that “neurologists are warning of increased gallbladder-related conditions linked to polluted water”.
The NDC government’s anti-galamsey campaign, including the “Goldbod” initiative, was dismissed by the Minority as a “monumental scam”, with allegations that gold being procured under the programme is sourced directly from illegal mining operations.
The statement concluded with a strong demand for accountability: “Ghanaians deserve clean water, preserved forests, good health, and real leadership. If the NDC cannot deliver that, they have no business being in power.”
Meanwhile, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, assured that the government is treating the galamsey menace with all the urgency to ensure it is dealt with.
